"Odd PAF Pro"
3

The DiMarzio FRED was designed after they tried to adjust the PAF Pro’s midrange as per Joe Satriani’s request. However, this doesn’t really sound like a PAF Pro with the midrange boosted. Instead, it has some sort of odd overtones that are happening. Like most of DiMarzio’s pickups, this comes with allen head bolts on both coils and four conductor wiring. The magnet is an Alnico 5, so it’s a bit more “alive” than most of the ceramic pickups that they offer.

The DiMarzio FRED is not like a normal PAF Pro. This pickup is almost similar to a single coil at times but without the hum. The low end is very tight, the midrange is even and the treble is clear to the point where it’s almost too much. Joe Satriani used this pickup in the bridge position for the longest time, but it can just as easily be used in the neck with a higher output bridge pickup.

If you have a dark guitar, this could suit it. Those looking for a somewhat single coil attack but with no hum will probably like this. It’s different sounding than the PAF Pro, so if you’re in love with that tone, you’ll probably want to check out something else. The Breed would be a good alternative in that case. The split sounds on this are pretty bright but nothing to really write home about. I couldn’t find a real use for the split sounds. Guitars with solid mahogany bodies and mahogany necks might be a good match with this. However, I can’t say I’m a big fan of this pickup. It was just kinda thin sounding without any real good redeeming qualities. Joe Satriani made it work, though, so it could be a useful pickup in your guitar. It all depends on the style and tone you’re going for.